Mains backs Coughlan's credentials
March 18, 2002

Hurricanes coach Graham Mourie has total faith in reserve prop Tony Coughlan to do well against the Cats in their Super 12 match on Friday if Tony Penn is ruled out by injury.

Penn, who has an injured AC joint, seems almost certain to miss the game, along with flanker Campbell Feather, who has damaged a rib cartilage.

Whichever prop plays will be up against tough Cats and Springboks tighthead prop Willie Meyer (pictured).

"Tony (Coughlan) is certainly a lot fitter this season. He's really lifted himself this year attitude-wise, and physically he's in a lot better shape than he was last year," Mourie said.

"Mentally he's a lot stronger. I don't have any problems with where TC (Coughlan) is. When he's gone on this season he's done well."

Mourie is also busy working on the tackling techniques of several of his players who have had problems conceding penalties for high tackling. Loose forward Jerry Collins and halfback Jason Spice have picked up several penalties for the offence this season.

Mourie believes that the change in playing techniques and tactics has led to an increase of high tackles, particularly when passes go back inside and players are wrong footed.

"We've been doing some work on it. It's actually a common problem. There were several in the Crusaders-Reds game yesterday (Sunday) for example. A lot of it comes when a player goes on the inside.

"We did a couple of sessions in (South) Africa and another one this week now that we've got a bit more time," Mourie said. "But I don't think our players are any worse than any other team." - Sapa

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